Do you want to contribute to groundbreaking research that pushes the boundaries of science? Are you looking for a PhD position where you can translate your curiosity into concrete research results and a dissertation? Then the position of PhD candidate in Fair Climate Policy at the University of Groningen (RUG) and the Netherlands Institute for Social Research (SCP) is exactly what you are looking for!
As a PhD candidate in Fair Climate Policy, you will have the opportunity, under supervision, to develop your own insights, collect data, and share your findings with both academic colleagues and practice and societal partners. Together with a motivated team, you will work on meaningful solutions and contribute to the future of your field.
Research project. The Netherlands faces major challenges in the field of sustainability. The current intensive use of natural resources leads to irreversible environmental damage, resource depletion, and further climate change. At the same time, climate action entails distributional effects and can exacerbate existing inequalities and impact the lives of citizens. This manifests itself in concerns regarding both the consequences of climate change and the impact of climate policy on social inequality and the quality of life of specific groups. Many citizens consider it important to protect the climate, the environment, and nature, and recognize climate change as a societal issue. However, there is disagreement regarding which solutions are most suitable. It is therefore important to understand how climate policy can be developed that is effective, but is also perceived as just, fair, and acceptable, and contributes to people’s quality of life. Policy that does not exclude people, but connects them. The project aims to develop psychological and sociological insights into what citizens view as fair and just solutions to climate change and the factors and circumstances that influence these perceptions. Additionally, the project aims to provide guidelines for policymakers for the development of policy that is perceived by citizens as (more) just, fair(er), and (more) acceptable, and contributes to the wellbeing of society.
Collaboration. This research project is a collaboration between the Environmental Psychology expertise group at the University of Groningen (RUG), specifically research into public acceptance of sustainable transitions, the Citizens and Government programme at the SCP, and the chair of Prof. Dr. Maroesjka Versantvoort on the role of values and meaning in people’s sustainability trade-offs (previous research by the SCP, “Between Sustainable Thinking and Sustainable Action”). The PhD candidate will receive a full-time appointment for 2 years at the RUG in Groningen (years 1 and 2) and subsequently a full-time appointment for 2 years at the SCP in The Hague (years 3 and 4). This collaboration offers a unique opportunity to leverage the knowledge and expertise of both organizations and to build rich experience in cross-institutional collaboration.
Why would you want this position?
- Making an impact: in this role, you contribute directly to scientific insights that address societal issues. Your research translates not only into publications but also into concrete solutions, ensuring a tangible impact.
- Personal development: you get the opportunity to develop yourself into an expert, with the support of experienced scientists. This combination of research and education offers ample opportunities for professional and personal growth.
The SCP works for the entire society. To do this as effectively as possible, we strive for a diversity of qualities, perspectives, and backgrounds in our teams. We also actively work on an organizational culture in which everyone feels welcome and can be themselves. For more information about the organization, see About the SCP | Netherlands Institute for Social Research.
